Is it hard to get approved for Amazon Handmade? Amazon Handmade is a fantastic platform for artisans and crafters to showcase and sell unique, handcrafted items. With its Large-scale customer base and global reach, it’s no wonder that many creators are eager to join this exclusive marketplace.
However, the approval process can be competitive, requiring detailed product descriptions and high-quality images to meet Amazon’s standards.
Selling on this platform can be an excellent prospect for artisans and crafters to reach a vast audience. However, getting approved to sell involves a specific process and meeting certain criteria.
Selling handmade products on Amazon Handmade can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. I got approved and started making thousands within weeks!
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Why is Amazon Handmade?
Amazon Handmade is a dedicated platform within Amazon for artisans to sell their handcrafted products. This niche marketplace allows sellers to showcase their unique items to millions of customers who appreciate handcrafted goods.
At Amazon, we are deeply committed to our customers and their need for a reliable destination for handcrafted goods, which inspired us to create Handmade. Artisans from over 80 countries are Following their passion and selling their crafts on Amazon. Together, we are nurturing craft communities and building successful businesses.
Here’s a guide to help you navigate the Amazon Handmade application process smoothly.
Setting Up Your Amazon Professional Seller Account
Ready to sell with Amazon? As a new Seller, you can take advantage of a series of incentives.
Before you can apply to Amazon Handmade, you need an Amazon Professional Seller account. Visit sell.amazon.com to sign up for a professional seller account, which costs $39.99/month. However, this fee is waived once approved as a seller. Sometimes, they even refund the first month’s fee, so watch for that!
Proving You’re a Handmade Seller
The most crucial part of the application is demonstrating that you’re a genuine handmade seller. You or your team should make your products using hand tools or light machinery. Amazon does not allow mass production, ensuring that all sellers in the handmade category genuinely create their products. This rule helps maintain the authenticity of the handmade marketplace.
Describing Your Work and Products
In this section, describe your products and the processes you use to create them. You can sell items like hand-altered pre-made products or upcycled items, where you enhance a used item’s value through refinements or upgrades. Be clear about what you do and avoid using mass-produced items from manufacturers.
For example, if you create vinyl record bowls or pillow covers from vintage rugs, explain your creative process and how you transform these materials into new products. However, adding a monogram to a mass-produced coffee mug might only qualify as handmade if it involves significant customization.
Detailing Your Products and Processes
In this part, you’ll answer specific questions about your products, including:
- What raw materials do you use? List all materials and tools involved in your process, whether vinyl, paper, or light machinery.
- What tools and techniques do you use? Describe your techniques, like cutting or hand-assembling parts using a silhouette machine.
- How long does it take to craft a product? Be honest about the time required, from preparation to the final touches.
- Are there any additional details? This optional section allows you to provide more information about your process or products.
Showcasing Your Work with Photos
You can include up to three photos of your products and process. These photos highlight your handmade process, showing steps like materials and workspaces. Including a business card or identifier in the photos can help verify your business. Avoid any products that might infringe on copyrights or trademarks, as Amazon is strict about these rules.
Choosing Your Product Category
Select the appropriate category for your products from the available options. This choice doesn’t limit you when listing your items on Amazon but helps Amazon understand what you’ll be selling. Categories include jewellery, home decor, and personal care.
The Approval Process
Application Submission
To start selling on Amazon Handmade, you Must apply. This involves providing detailed information about your business, including the types of products you create, the materials you use, and the process involved in making them. Amazon wants to ensure that all items listed in the Handmade category are genuinely handcrafted.
Product Authenticity and Quality
Amazon is committed to maintaining high standards for the products sold on its platform. Therefore, part of the approval process involves proving the authenticity and quality of your handmade items. This might include submitting photos of your workspace, detailed descriptions of your production process, and examples of your work.
Meeting Amazon’s Criteria
To be approved, your products must meet Amazon’s criteria for handmade goods. This means they should be made entirely by hand, hand-altered, or hand-assembled. Mass-produced items or those made with automated machinery typically do not qualify.
Tips for a Successful Application
Detailed Descriptions:When filling out your application, provide as much detail as possible about your products and processes. Highlight what makes your items unique and the craftsmanship involved in creating them.
High-Quality Photos:Submit high-quality photos of your products and workspace. Clear, well-lit images help Amazon verify that your items are genuinely handmade and of high quality.
Consistent Branding:Make sure your branding is consistent everywhere—whether it’s your website or social media. A polished, professional look boosts your credibility and makes it more likely you’ll get approved.
Strong Online Presence:Having a strong online presence, like a well-made website and active social media, can really strengthen your application. It tells Amazon that you’re committed to your work and serious about your business.
Benefits of Selling on Amazon Handmade
One big advantage for people selling handmade products on Amazon is that their items can appear in regular search results. For example, if you sell soap, your products might appear when someone searches for soap, even if they aren’t specifically looking for a handmade option.
Once approved, selling on Amazon Handmade comes with several benefits:
- Reach a huge audience: Amazon Handmade gives you access to millions of potential customers around the world.
- Enhanced Visibility: Your products can benefit from Amazon’s search and advertising capabilities, increasing their visibility.
- Trust and Credibility: Being part of Amazon’s trusted platform can enhance your brand’s credibility.
Feel free to share links to your social media profiles, Etsy shop, or website. This additional information helps Amazon better understand your brand and ensures they understand you’re a legitimate handmade seller.
You’ll also be asked if you want to learn about Fulfilled by Amazon (FBA), which offers Prime shipping. This is optional but can be beneficial for your business. Finally, agree to the platform’s guidelines and submit your application.
That’s it! With this guide, you should be well-prepared to apply to Amazon Handmade and start your journey as a successful handmade seller. Remember, authenticity and clarity are key.
Conclusion
Approved for Amazon Handmade can be challenging, but it is achievable with proper preparation. Focus on showcasing the authenticity and craftsmanship of your products through detailed descriptions and high-quality images. You can leverage its extensive customer base and credibility to grow your handmade business by meeting Amazon’s criteria.
You can reach a large, appreciative audience. With dedication and attention to detail, you can successfully navigate the approval process and take your business to new heights.
Good luck!